March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
In 1970, Vince Lombardi died from colon cancer at the young age of 57, just ten weeks after his diagnosis. Today, colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the country, with an estimated 158,850 new cases expected this year.
While colorectal cancer has long been associated with older adults, diagnoses among younger people are rapidly increasing. 1 in 5 colorectal cancer diagnoses now occur in someone under the age of 55, and it is currently the leading cause of cancer death in people under 50. Because of this growing risk, the recommended screening age is now 45, instead of 50.
Early detection saves lives. That’s why the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation is taking action this March to spread awareness. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to help make an impact by liking and sharing our posts. Every share, every conversation, and every informed decision can help save a life.
KNOW THE FACTS
According to the American Cancer Society:
Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States
An estimated 158,850 new colorectal cancer cases will be diagnosed in 2026
Since 2004, colorectal cancer diagnoses have increased by 15%
Colorectal cancer is the most common cancer-related death in people under 50, and it’s the second most common cancer death overall.
KNOW THE SIGNS
Colorectal cancer can start silently, but common symptoms include:
stomach pains, cramps, or aches that don't go away
changes in bowel habits, such as going to the bathroom more or less frequently
weight loss that is unexpected/unplanned
If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor right away.
GET SCREENED
Screening can not only detect colorectal cancer at its earliest stage but can also sometimes detect and remove abnormal growths called polyps before they become cancerous.
According to the CDC, colorectal cancer almost always develops from precancerous polyps. Early screening can detect these abnormal growths, allowing them to be removed before cancer develops.
Regular screenings should now start at age 45 for those with no personal OR family history of colorectal cancer, even if there have never been symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.
If any of the following factors apply to you, it could mean an above-average risk for colorectal cancer - talk to your doctor about early screening:
A first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with colorectal cancer
A personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps
A hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome, such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome
Inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, or obesity
A history of radiation to the abdomen or pelvic area
Ashkenazi Jewish heritage, which is associated with a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer.
There are several colorectal cancer screening strategies available. Talk with your doctor about which is right for you.
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT
Everyone has a cancer story. Everyone’s lives have been touched by this deadly disease, and there are many opportunities to show support. It can be hard to know what to say when someone shares they received a cancer diagnosis or are going through treatment for cancer. VLCF’s Treasurer, Luis Ayala was diagnosed with stomach cancer at the age of 40 in 2014. He underwent two surgeries to remove the cancer and celebrated 10 years cancer-free in December 2024. He shares some insight as a cancer survivor on how to navigate these conversations, as well as show support for loved ones battling cancer.
It’s not always going to be ok. A cancer diagnosis is surrounded with uncertainty, and responding with empathy that it must be scary, or that you don’t know what to say and you are there to support them, or simply the truth that cancer sucks, are meaningful ways to show support.
Be a good listener. Every journey is unique and comes with its own fears and challenges, and being a sounding board can be a big support as a loved one processes their personal experience.
Do the normal things together. Invite them to watch the big game, get a pedicure, or go to a favorite restaurant to help overcome the pervasive presence of their treatment journey.
MAKING AN IMPACT
In 2024, the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation awarded the University of Michigan a $50,000 grant to support its research project, “Optimizing Survivorship Among Younger Adults with Colorectal Cancer.” Dr. Pasithorn (Amy) Suwanabol, Associate Professor at the University of Michigan, along with her research team, is leading important studies focused on survivorship in colorectal cancer patients. As awareness of colorectal cancer grows, the number of diagnoses in adults under 50 has also risen. With earlier screenings, diagnoses, and treatments, it is increasingly important to understand the long-term effects of cancer treatment to improve the quality of life for these patients over time.
The valuable data now being collected plays a crucial role in Dr. Suwanabol's research. Her team combines cancer registry information with insights from patient interviews, covering key aspects such as financial stability, healthcare access, the impact on family and career-building, and other daily life factors. By analyzing this data, their findings aim to guide the development of better care strategies that can enhance the long-term well-being of all cancer patients.
Donate today to support research and improve patient care. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by colorectal cancer. VLCF is committed to supporting groundbreaking colorectal cancer research, and your donation is an investment in our goal to prevent cancer, care for those fighting it, and find a cure.
Learn More. In addition to contacting your health care provider for more information about colorectal cancer, here are some trusted websites, used to compile the information on this page, that have additional resources for patients.